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Looking for something great to watch at home? Streaming subscribers are spoiled for choice between Hulu, Netflix, HBO Max, Disney+, Apple TV+, Prime Video, Shudder, Paramount+, Peacock, and more. And that's before you even look at the vast libraries of movies and television programs within each streamer!

SEE ALSO: The 10 best TV shows of 2025 (so far), and where to stream them

Don't be overwhelmed or waste an hour scrolling through your services to determine what to watch. We've got your back, whatever your mood. Mashable offers watch guides for all of the above, broken down by genre: comedy, thriller, horror, documentary, and animation, among others. But if you're seeking something brand-new (or just new to streaming), we've got you covered there, too.

Mashable's entertainment team has scoured the streaming services to highlight the most buzzed-about releases of this week and ranked them from worst to best — or least worth your time to most watchable. Whether you're in the mood for twisted true crime, hilarious cartoons, bold tales of grief, historical epics, or absolute horror stories, we've got something just for you.

12. Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes

Conversations with a Killer is a recurring docuseries that Netflix produces with writer/director Joe Berlinger, who has spent his career digging into the most notorious America serial killers, from John Wayne Gacy to Ted Bundy, and now David Berkowitz, aka the Son of Sam or the .44 Caliber Killer.

From 1975 to 1977, when he was arrested, Berkowitz stalked New York City, shooting strangers with a .44 caliber gun, sometimes fatally. The randomness of these acts of violence instilled fear in the city, which Berlinger aims to recaptures by interviewing the cops, residents, and journalists who lived through it. But — as the title suggests — the main draw for Conversations with a Killer are the audio-taped interviews the still-living Berkowitz gave to a journalist shortly after his arrest.

Dragged out over three hour-long episodes, Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes is overlong. As he has with other killers, Berlinger's fascination with their inner workings means compelling talking head interviews about the case and its effects on society are overshadowed by the way the series treats Berkowitz's brain like a sacred text, worthy of decoding. To put it mildly, Berlinger's brand of true crime is one that turns victims into two-dimensional props, while the notorious murderer gets the spotlight. Depending on what you crave from true crime, your mileage may vary. As for me? I tapped out partway through episode two. — Kristy Puchko, Entertainment Editor

How to watch: Conversations with a Killer: The Son of Sam Tapes is now streaming on Netflix.

11. Memoir of a Snail

A bleak, brilliant, and at times hilarious portrait of grief and loss, Memoir of a Snail is unlike the narratives you might have seen on these universal experiences. Mary and Max director, writer, and production designer Adam Elliot pulls you into a detailed stop-motion animation story, following Grace Pudel (voiced by Sarah Snook) and her twin brother Gilbert (Kodi Smit-McPhee), who endure a staggering amount of misfortune. Wrenched apart and plunked onto either sides of the globe, the two live strangely different lives without ever forgetting each other. As I wrote in my review, "Despite appearances, this is not is a kids' movie. A funny, strangely sweet, and macabre tale, Memoir of a Snail embraces the surrealism of life's darker side in a bleak but fascinating world." — Shannon Connellan, UK Editor

Starring: Sarah Snook, Kodi Smit-McPhee, Eric Bana, Magda Szubanski, Dominique Pinon, Tony Armstrong, Paul Capsis, Bernie Clifford, Davey Thompson, Charlotte Belsey, Mason Litsos, Nick Cave, and Jacki Weaver

How to watch: Memoir of a Snail begins streaming on Hulu on Aug. 1.

10. The Friend

Trigger warning: The following film (and the blurb discussing it) involves mentions of suicide.

Last year, The Friend was a dramedy that earned solid film festival buzz, thanks in no small part to the charismatic performances from stars Naomi Watts, Bill Murray, and Bing, a beautiful Great Dane who is the film's adorable scene-stealer. During the enchanting press tour, you might have caught that Watts plays Iris a woman who's grieving the death of a friend (Murray) while caring for the problematically large pet he left behind. You might have missed, however, that Murray's character dies by suicide.

SEE ALSO: Bill Murray and Naomi Watts chose the one film for which they want to be remembered, and it's surprising

I mention this not to shock you, but so you might brace yourself (or just duck this one) as needed. Written and directed by Scott McGehee and David Siegel, The Friend treats the topic of grieving a person who has died by suicide with great care. One aspect of grief and its different stages can be a sense of guilt, which is a significant factor in Iris' dilemma over whether or not to keep the dog. It's a bittersweet film, rightly deserving of the praise it's received. But as someone who went in not knowing what to expect, I'd recommend proceeding with caution if the topic of grieving a friend lost to suicide hits too close to home. — K.P.

Starring: Naomi Watts, Bill Murray, Sarah Pidgeon, Carla Gugino, Constance Wu, and Ann Dowd

How to watch: The Friend begins streaming on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

9. The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball

From 2011 to 2019, across 240 episodes, creator Ben Bocquelet gave kids and grown-ups alike a bevy of colorful characters, gleefully colliding art styles, and stories hilarious and often heart-warming with The Amazing World of Gumball. And now, the titular 12-year-old cat and his bestie/brother Darwin are back with new adventures in the sequel series The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball.

What has the Watterson family been up to since they've been gone? Collecting dust per their "leaked" teaser from Cartoon Network! Which means that Gumball and company shouldn't miss a beat when it comes to fresh mayhem and mind-bending pop culture references. Will they be able to top the Golden Girls parody ep? Look, that's a very, very high bar to clear. But we're happy to see them try! — K.P.

Starring: Alkaio Thiele, Hero Hunter, Kinza Syed Khan, Teresa Gallagher, and Dan Russell

How to watch: The Wonderfully Weird World of Gumball is now streaming on Hulu.

8. The Yogurt Shop Murders

In 1991, a yogurt shop in Austin, Texas, was the scene of a nightmarish quadruple homicide that took the lives of four teenagers. Documentarian Margaret Brown (Descendant) looks back on the cold case in this four-part docuseries with sensitivity and care. Beyond searching for clues or fresh leads, The Yogurt Shop Murders explores the lives of those who were lost, and how their families were impacted — and how they continue to endure the lingering mystery around what happened that night.

I watched the first episode of this docuseries ahead of its debut at SXSW 2025, which was hosted in Austin. Even just from this introduction to the series, Brown's empathy for the families and her desire to uncover the truth and achieve justice is clear. Be warned: This murder mystery may hook you, and haunt you. — K.P.

How to watch: The first episode of The Yogurt Shop Murders debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 3.

7. Eyes of Wakanda

The four-episode animated miniseries Eyes of Wakanda takes us back into the history of Wakanda and the MCU. Directed by Todd Harris and executive produced by Black Panther director Ryan Coogler, the series follows the Wakandan warriors known as the Hatut Zeraze as they retrieve dangerous vibranium artifacts from across the globe. Maybe we'll even see the Black Panthers who preceded Chadwick Boseman's T'Challa, or older iterations of the Dora Milaje warriors.* — Belen Edwards, Entertainment Reporter

Starring: Winnie Harlow, Cress Williams, Patricia Belcher, Larry Herron, Adam Gold, Lynn Whitfield, Jacques Colimon, Jona Xiao, Isaac Robinson-Smith, Gary Anthony Williams, Zeke Alton, Steve Toussaint, and Anika Noni Rose

How to watch: Eyes of Wakanda premieres Aug. 1 on Disney+.

6. Marc Maron: Panicked

American's most stressed out stand-up is back with a new special. Marc Maron, who's been a comedy icon for decades and a top-notch podcaster with WTF with Marc Maron, dives right into MAGA America by kicking off Panicked with how "great" things are going.

Maron doesn't hold back, making punchlines of President Trump, Robert F. Kennedy, and Elon Musk before going in on comedy podcasters, who denounce "wokeness" and crave free speech. To drive his points home, he embraces language that makes some uncomfortable — but knowingly so. The result is a special that is electric, like George Carlin at his best. So, if you're feeling panicked, Maron may not be the cure. But he sure as hell knows what ails ya. — K.P.

Starring: Marc Maron

How to watch: Marc Maron: Panicked debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

5. Final Destinations Bloodlines

Summertime means family fun, blended drinks, and DEATH AROUND EVERY TURN! As teased in the enticing trailer for the latest Final Destination entry, no place — no matter how convivial — is out of the reach of death. Directing duo Zach Lipovsky and Adam Stein (who made the underrated 2018 gem Freaks) bring comical carnage and eye-popping practical effects to Final Destination Bloodlines, a reboot/sequel that brings fresh horror to the franchise through a family twist.

Long before Devon Sawa deboarded that plane, a swinging '60s massacre was prevented by the premonition of a young pregnant woman. Decades later, her family thinks she's nuts for believing death is after her and her kin. But once she dies, her granddaughter Stefani Reyes (Kaitlyn Santa Juana) faces the bloody truth, one horrific freak "accident" at a time!

Twisted fun that'll have you side-eying everyday objects, Final Destinations Bloodlines is a splashy sequel not to be skipped! — K.P.

Starring: Kaitlyn Santa Juana, Teo Briones, Richard Harmon, Owen Patrick Joyner, Anna Lore, Brec Bassinger, and Tony Todd

How to watch: Final Destinations Bloodlines debuts on HBO Max on Aug. 1.

4. Chief of War

Looking for a historical epic that will knock your socks off? Then check out Apple TV+'s Chief of War, based on the true story of the unification of the Hawaiian Islands.

Co-created by Jason Momoa and Thomas Pa'a Sibbett, Chief of War transports viewers to the end of the 18th century, when the kingdoms of O'ahu, Maui, Kaua'i, and Hawai'i are at war. At the center of it all is warrior Ka'iana (Momoa), who must navigate shifting sides, villainous kings, and the outside threat of colonization. The result is a bloody, exquisitely crafted look at the corrupting power of prophecy, and the compromises people make to ensure their survival. (It also boasts some jaw-dropping battle sequences that you won't want to miss.) — B.E.

Starring: Jason Momoa, Temuera Morrison, Luciane Buchanan, Te Ao o Hinepehinga, Kaina Makua, Moses Goods, Siua Ikale'o, Brandon Finn, James Udom, Mainei Kinimaka, and Te Kohe Tuhaka

How to watch: Chief of War debuts on Apple TV+ on Aug. 1.

3. King of the Hill

Hank Hill and company returns! Fifteen years after the Season 13 finale, creator Mike Judge has gotten most of the original gang back together for new misadventures in Arlen, Texas.

Several years have passed since we last saw the Hills. Hank and Peggy were living it up in Saudi Arabia, where Hank's expertise in propane (and propane accessories) allowed them to live the sweet life, while Peggy put her language skills to learning Arabic. But now they're back home, eager to reconnect with friends like Bill, Dale, and Boomhauer. And of course, they're happy to reunite with their son Bobby Hill. Now 21, Bobby has rebuffed college to start his own fusion restaurant. And while each episode of Season 14 has its moments, the one centering on Bobby's drive and dreams for his Japanese/German barbecue joint was the one that had me laughing, gasping, and tearing up.

Simply put, we're so back. — K.P.

Starring: Mike Judge, Kathy Najimy, Pamela Adlon, and Stephen Root

How to watch: King of the Hill returns to Hulu with Season 14 on Aug. 4.

2. 28 Years Later

Director Danny Boyle and screenwriter Alex Garland reunite for a killer sequel to 2002's 28 Days Later, delivering yet another zombie film for the ages. In 28 Years Later, the Rage Virus continues to run rampant in the quarantined UK, but survivors in an island community have found ways to thrive in the apocalypse. The film kicks off with 12-year-old islander Spike (Alfie Williams) and his father (Aaron Taylor-Johnson) heading to the mainland as a rite of passage, which quickly spirals into an unrelenting stress ride.

Bursting with gore, deep emotion, and innovative filming techniques, 28 Years Later proves just as harrowing and fresh as Boyle and Garland's first foray into zombie filmmaking. As Mashable UK Editor Shannon Connellan wrote in her review, "In a landscape heaving with zombie apocalypse media from The Walking Dead to The Last of Us, 28 Years Later manages to declare its footing as an original monster. Magnificently shot, ruthlessly edited, and outrageously scored, it's a rambunctious, grisly, human tale of survival." — B.E.

Starring: Alfie Williams, Aaron Taylor-Johnson, Jodie Comer, Ralph Fiennes, and Jack O’Connell

How to watch: 28 Years Later is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

1. The Life of Chuck

Writer/director Mike Flanagan and Stephen King are a match made in heaven. Look no further than Flanagan's adaptations of Gerald's Game and Doctor Sleep. However, with The Life of Chuck, Flanagan outdoes himself, tackling a twisty King novella and creating a gorgeous film that honestly works way better if you go in knowing nothing about it.

What I will say is this: As the title suggests, The Life of Chuck chronicles the life of 39-year-old accountant Chuck Krantz (Tom Hiddleston). But that's all you get! For more reasons to watch Flanagan's "career-best" work, look no further than its critical acclaim. In her review, Mashable's Kristy Puchko wrote, "The Life of Chuck is masterfully told. Like King's most moving adaptations, it doesn't play by standard rules of structure or audience expectations. It demands we follow the winding road through playful dialogue, painful lows, and rollicking highs, to an unknown beyond." You heard her, get to watching! — B.E.

Starring: Chiwetel Ejiofor, Tom Hiddleston, Annalise Basso, Benjamin Pajak, Karen Gillan, Mia Sara, Matthew Lillard, Carl Lumbly, Samantha Sloyan, Harvey Guillén, Jacob Tremblay, Kate Siegel, and Mark Hamill

How to watch: The Life of Chuck is now available to rent or buy on Prime Video.

(*) denotes a blurb comes from a previous list.

If you're feeling suicidal or experiencing a mental health crisis, please talk to somebody. You can call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988, or chat at 988lifeline.org. You can reach the Trans Lifeline by calling 877-565-8860 or the Trevor Project at 866-488-7386. Text "START" to Crisis Text Line at 741-741. Contact the NAMI HelpLine at 1-800-950-NAMI, Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. – 10:00 p.m. ET, or email info@nami.org. If you don't like the phone, consider using the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline Chat at crisischat.org. Here is a list of international resources.

TL;DR: The DJI Mini 4K drone is on sale for $249 at Amazon (Prime member discount). That's $50 off the list price for a limited time.

Opens in a new window Credit: Amazon DJI Mini 4K $249 at Amazon
$299 Save $50 Get Deal

DJI is one of the biggest names in drones, with a strong reputation for creating incredible aerial shots. For this reason, their product range is often the top choice of TikTokers, YouTubers, and filmmakers. That being said, we were surprised to see the DJI Mini 4K drone so near the top of the charts of best-sellers over Prime Day. We knew these drones were popular, but surely not AirPods popular?

Then the real reason hit us like an out-of-control drone.

President Donald Trump has signed two executive orders aimed at helping the U.S. drone industry and shoring up protections against malicious drone activity. The measures don't actually order a full ban on Chinese-made drones (yet), but talk of a ban on DJI drones has been doing the rounds for a while now. That uncertainty must be boosting sales.

SEE ALSO: The DJI Power 2000 portable power station means business, and it’s great for DJI drone owners

The good news for anyone scrambling to buy before a potential ban is that you can still find the DJI Mini 4K drone on Amazon. In fact, it's on sale for $249 at Amazon for Prime members. It's being sold and shipped by AeroTech Hubs. We don't generally recommend third-party sellers, but AeroTech Hubs has an excellent track record and times are tough right now. With stock running low, we'll take what we can get.

The DJI Mini 4K is full of helpful features for beginners and advanced users. It has one-tap takeoff options and a return to home function. But perhaps most importantly for content creators is the three-axis gimbal and 4K quality, as well as advanced wind resistance and extended battery life. It's a step up from the DJI Neo Mini 4K that we think creators will appreciate.

Prime members can get the DJI Mini 4K drone for under $250 at Amazon. Not a member? You can still score this drone for under $300.

SAVE $200: The Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is on sale at Amazon for $999, down from the list price of $1,199. That's a 17% discount and the lowest price ever at Amazon.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $999 at Amazon
$1,199 Save $200 Get Deal

One of the best times to buy a new MacBook is during the Amazon Prime Day event in July. Another awesome time is right about now, during back-to-school season. And like clockwork, we're seeing great discounts on MacBooks and other Apple devices as we head into August. If you're eyeing a new MacBook, check out today's sale at Amazon.

As of July 29, the Apple MacBook Air, 13-inch (M4, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) is $999 at Amazon, marked down from the normal price of $1,199. That takes $200 off the price from a 17% discount. It's also the best price we've spotted at Amazon.

If you know you want a MacBook and you prioritize portability, the 13-inch MacBook Air is likely your best bet. In Mashable's comparison of the best MacBook, the Air gets the nod of the best overall, and it also happens to be the most affordable option. Today's sale price gives you a machine with the new, zippy M4 chip and it comes with 512GB of storage.

SEE ALSO: Need to stock up on Apple AirTags? Get a 4-pack for under $80.

The 13-inch MacBook Air with 256GB of storage is also on sale at Amazon for a price of $799 which means you'll get double the storage with the 512GB version for $200 more. In addition, the $999 sale price applies to all colorways of the MacBook Air, which is nice to see. It's pretty common with Apple sales to only see a few colorways included in a sale.

Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder reviewed the M4 MacBook Air and wrote, "The new MacBook Air is great. It's powerful, silent, and comes with a couple of much-needed upgrades. It's also cheaper than before, making it the best-buy Apple laptop, period."

Before the rush of back to school takes hold, order the MacBook Air from Amazon for $999. It comes with the reassurance that you're getting the most affordable Apple laptop with more storage than the baseline model.

SAVE 14%: As of July 31, you can get the DJI Mini 3 drone for $359 at Amazon. That's a 14% discount and $60 off.

DJI Mini 3 $359 at Amazon
$419 Save $60 Get Deal

Whether you're a hobbyist, influencer, real estate agent, or professional photographer, a drone is one of the easiest ways to capture stunning aerial views and footage with relative ease. The only issue is that drones can be a pretty hefty investment. If you want a good one, you're easily looking at spending at least $500. But if you know where to look, you can often find a good deal. And while we usually don't recommend Amazon for drones, we actually found a legit DJI Mini 3 deal live right now.

As of July 31, you can snag the DJI Mini 3 drone for $359, or $60 off its regular price of $419. That's a 14% discount. This isn't the lowest price we've seen for this model, but it's pretty close. It was around $329 last June, but since it's still summer and there are plenty of opportunities to capture some amazing aerial views, $359 isn't a bad price at all.

SEE ALSO: Insta360's new drone brand Antigravity teases world first 360-degree camera drone

The DJI Mini 3 has a 38-minute flight time (and you can extend that up to 51 minutes with the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus) and can soar up to 32,800 feet. There’s no registration needed for recreational flying, since it’s under 249 grams. (Just keep in mind that if you buy the Intelligent Flight Battery Plus, it will weigh more.) It also shoots in 4K HDR video, and its true vertical shooting makes it super easy to take photos for social media.

This drone is also Level 5 wind-resistant, so it can stay steady even in windy conditions. And you can easily pair it with your phone for QuickTransfer at up to 25 Mb/s. This means you can use your phone as a remote and preview your shot from up to 10 km away.

Tesla has stopped taking orders for its Model S and Model X luxury electric vehicles in Europe.

The change was silently introduced across the continent; we've checked out several of Tesla's European websites, including those for Italy, Germany, France, Spain, and Croatia, and they're all only offering inventory Model X and Model S vehicles. In contrast, Tesla's Model 3 and Model Y cars can still be configured and ordered in these markets.

This doesn't mean the cars are completely unavailable in Europe; buyers can still choose from a number of preconfigured Model S and Model X vehicles (we've found several available models in every market we've checked).

The change comes after a quarter in which Tesla delivered just 10,394 of its "other" models, a category which encompasses the Model S, Model X, and Cybertruck — nearly a 50 percent drop compared to the same quarter last year.

The Model S and X were recently revamped in a modest way, with starting prices going up $5,000 for each model.

SEE ALSO: Waymo responds to Tesla's Robotaxi penis geofence with a size increase of its own

It could be just a temporary measure, though. As Electrek pointed out, this is not the first time it's happened; for example, Tesla wasn't taking orders for Model S and X throughout the first seven months of 2022, following a refresh of the two models the previous year.

The change could be due to supply issues, as the wait time for the Model S is two months even in California, where the car is produced. But it could also be a signal that the end of the line for Tesla's luxury EVs is near — at least in some markets.

TL;DR: Gift your kids an educational, low-stimulation app with the Montessori-inspired Pok Pok, now £45.13.

Opens in a new window Credit: Pok Pok Pok Pok: Lifetime Subscription £45.13
£188.06 Save £142.93 Get Deal

If you’re a parent of little ones, you’ve heard a lot of pros and cons for screen time. For those looking for a calm way to introduce toddlers to the concept, Pok Pok can help. This gentle, Montessori-inspired app is geared towards kids 2-8, and right now, a lifetime subscription can be yours for just £45.13.

Let your kids enjoy award-winning educational games, guilt-free

While most apps for kids are brightly colored and super stimulating, Pok Pok aims to be the opposite. Their app is filled with award-winning educational games that give your kids a foundation in STEM, numbers, cause and effect, problem-solving, and language. And you can rest easy with no guilt, knowing they’re enjoying an ad-free, low-stimulation educational experience.

This app is Montessori-inspired, which means it takes cues from Montessori’s child-centered educational approach, which focuses on hands-on learning, independence, and children’s natural development. That allows Pok Pok to provide a calming app experience that can grow with your child through open-ended play. All animations are hand-drawn, and sound effects and music are created in-house to ensure they’re calm, gentle, and not overly stimulating.

Pok Pok is COPPA-certified, which means you won’t see any advertisements to trick kids into buying things. There’s also an option for offline play when you’re traveling, or if you prefer, your child isn’t connected to the internet.

This lifetime subscription provides unlimited learning games and regular updates with new seasonal and cultural updates, so the app stays fresh and exciting. You’ll also receive a surprise gift mailed to you with your purchase.

Introduce little ones to screen time with the gentle, low-stimulation app, Pok Pok, now £45.13.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

If you like playing daily word games like Wordle, then Hurdle is a great game to add to your routine.

There are five rounds to the game. The first round sees you trying to guess the word, with correct, misplaced, and incorrect letters shown in each guess. If you guess the correct answer, it'll take you to the next hurdle, providing the answer to the last hurdle as your first guess. This can give you several clues or none, depending on the words. For the final hurdle, every correct answer from previous hurdles is shown, with correct and misplaced letters clearly shown.

An important note is that the number of times a letter is highlighted from previous guesses does necessarily indicate the number of times that letter appears in the final hurdle.

If you find yourself stuck at any step of today's Hurdle, don't worry! We have you covered.

SEE ALSO: Hurdle: Everything you need to know to find the answers Hurdle Word 1 hint

A saying.

SEE ALSO: Apple’s new M3 MacBook Air is $300 off at Amazon. And yes, I’m tempted. Hurdle Word 1 answer

MAXIM

Hurdle Word 2 hint

A tropical fruit.

SEE ALSO: Wordle today: Answer, hints for July 31, 2025 Hurdle Word 2 Answer

GUAVA

Hurdle Word 3 hint

Done to guitar strings.

SEE ALSO: NYT Connections Sports Edition today: Hints and answers for July 31 SEE ALSO: NYT Connections hints today: Clues, answers for July 31, 2025 Hurdle Word 3 answer

STRUM

Hurdle Word 4 hint

The largest body of water.

SEE ALSO: NYT Strands hints, answers for July 31 Hurdle Word 4 answer

OCEAN

Final Hurdle hint

To fold.

SEE ALSO: Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more: Games available on Mashable Hurdle Word 5 answer

CRIMP

If you're looking for more puzzles, Mashable's got games now! Check out our games hub for Mahjong, Sudoku, free crossword, and more.

The moon is inching closer to being half lit, which means we're getting closer to a new moon phase.

The lunar cycle is a series of eight unique phases of the moon's visibility. The whole cycle takes about 29.5 days, according to NASA, and these different phases happen as the Sun lights up different parts of the moon whilst it orbits Earth. 

So, what's happening tonight, July 31?

What is today’s moon phase?

As of Thursday, July 31, the moon phase is Waxing Crescent. There's 41% of the moon's surface visible to us on Earth (according to NASA's Daily Moon Observation).

It's day seven of the lunar cycle, and the last moon in July. As we say goodbye to another month, let's see what will be visible to us on the moon tonight.

With the unaided eye, enjoy a glimpse of the Mare Serenitatis, the Tranquillitatis, and the Mare Fecunditatis, an impact basin also known as the "Sea of Fertility."

With binoculars, you'll also get a glimpse of the Endymion Crater, the Mare Nectaris, and the Posidonius Crater, a lava-filled impact crater that's visible from the fifth to the 19th day of the lunar cycle.

If you have a telescope, position it in the middle right, descending (middle left, ascending if in the Southern Hemisphere) to see the Rima Arladaeus, the Apollo 16, and the Rupes Altai, a circular cliff around 298 miles long.

When is the next full moon?

The next full moon will be on August 9. The last full moon was on July 10.

What are moon phases?

According to NASA, moon phases are caused by the 29.5-day cycle of the moon’s orbit, which changes the angles between the Sun, Moon, and Earth. Moon phases are how the moon looks from Earth as it goes around us. We always see the same side of the moon, but how much of it is lit up by the Sun changes depending on where it is in its orbit. This is how we get full moons, half moons, and moons that appear completely invisible. There are eight main moon phases, and they follow a repeating cycle:

New Moon - The moon is between Earth and the sun, so the side we see is dark (in other words, it's invisible to the eye).

Waxing Crescent - A small sliver of light appears on the right side (Northern Hemisphere).

First Quarter - Half of the moon is lit on the right side. It looks like a half-moon.

Waxing Gibbous - More than half is lit up, but it’s not quite full yet.

Full Moon - The whole face of the moon is illuminated and fully visible.

Waning Gibbous - The moon starts losing light on the right side.

Last Quarter (or Third Quarter) - Another half-moon, but now the left side is lit.

Waning Crescent - A thin sliver of light remains on the left side before going dark again.

This content originally appeared on Mashable for a US audience and has been adapted for the UK audience.

All Android smartphones come bundled with earphones for you to listen to your favourite music or podcasts immediately, but they're rarely impressive. It's a fact of life. The smart thing to do is purchase a separate pair of headphones or earphones that suit your needs, as long as you know the kind of headphones or earbuds you need.

It's important to think about when you're going to be using your headphones. For starters, do you want to block out background noise while you're on your daily commute? Do you want a pair that are great while you're running or working out at the gym? Or do you just want to relax at home, listening to music through your headphones, perhaps even while you sleep? 

These sort of questions will help you find the best wireless headphones for your Android device. To make it even easier, we've put together a quick guide and rounded up some of the best headphones and earbuds for Android devices.

What is Android?

Perhaps best known as the alternative operating system to Apple’s iOS, the Google-owned Android is an open source platform — that means (unlike Apple) any developers and tech companies can use and build on it. It’s used on many non-Apple phones and tablets, including devices made by Samsung and Google itself. Over 3 billion people actively use Android devices.

What makes a pair of headphones good for Android users?

It stands to reason that headphones made by the likes of Google and Samsung will make headphones that brilliantly sync with Android devices. Generally, look for headphones that have compatibility with Android-specific features, such as Google Fast Pair and Google Assistant. Most decent Bluetooth headphones have access to a voice assistant, such as Alexa, Google Assistant, or Samsung’s Bixby. You just need to set the headphones to your preferred version — in this case, Google Assistant. Be wary of headphones that only support one voice assistant (some have Alexa built-in). 

What can Google Assistant do?

Once you have Google Assistant set up on your headphones and Android device, it’s seriously helpful. You can ask it to play specific songs — not to mention control all playback features — as well as make calls and send messages, set schedules and alarms, do general searches, and check the news or weather. Some Android devices also support Google's Gemini Live AI chatbot — a step up from Google Assistant. Gemini Live is capable of holding actual, real-time conversations.

What is Google Fast Pair?

This Google-specific feature eliminates the faff of fiddling around with menus to connect Bluetooth devices. Your Android device will use Bluetooth Low Energy and location tech to immediately detect any Bluetooth devices nearby. A window will automatically pop up on your device and ask if you want to connect. Fast Pair devices can also sync with your Google account and offer personalised features.

Are cheap headphones worth the money?

The simple answer is, not usually. If you’re looking to go easy on your wallet, you could just stick with the pair that come with your Android smartphone. This is only really a worthwhile plan if you're prone to losing headphones, because — ultimately — the standard-issue headphones are never that good. If you regularly enjoy music or podcasts, it's definitely worth investing in a more expensive pair that offer more useful features like active noise cancellation or companion apps.

What are the best headphones for Android?

To help you find something that will work for you and your Android device, we have tracked down a selection of your best options. We've done the research, read the online reviews, and have come up with a list of the best headphones for Android users.

These are the best headphones for Android devices in 2025.

Buying headphones for your kids sounds like a good idea. For starters, you won't have to listen to their terrible YouTube videos for the millionth time. Or their music. Or any other kids' entertainment that's given you an horrendous ear worm lately.

But there's a more important reason to buy your kids some headphones. Your child's ears are super sensitive while they're still developing and it's possible to damage them with sounds of over 85 decibels. Using adult headphones isn't the best idea. Not unless you can convince them to lower the volume, which is harder than it should be. Chances are the little tykes will crank the volume back up when you leave the room.

Instead, you're better off purchasing a pair of headphones designed specifically for children. Kids' headphones will fit better on little heads and usually have a volume limiter to keep the decibels down. But how do you sort one set of kids' headphones from another? We've done some research and put together some helpful info.

Do kids need wired or wireless headphones?

It depends on how much you want to spend, and whether you can recharge headphones on a regular basis. Many of the wireless headphones listed in this roundup have decent battery life, but they are typically more expensive than wired versions. However, if your child is particularly young, wired headphones can be a risk, so always supervise them while they're using their headphones.

What's the maximum noise level for children?

Generally, many auditory health organisations recommend that the ideal noise level for a child is about 70db, and that volumes should never exceed 85db. Most adult headphones peak at about 115db, which is why it's important to use dedicated headphones for your child rather than just giving them yours. And remember that the limit is a limit, not a guide, so they should aim to play music a little quieter.

Can a child use earbuds?

In-ear buds are great for adults, but they're not recommended for children. Developing ears are more sensitive to noise damage because their nerve fibres are still growing. Also, due to having smaller external auditory canals, the eardrum is always closer to the sound source. Their little ears are just too delicate to put at risk.

Is there a limit of headphone use for kids?

Similar to limiting screen time, it's sensible to restrict your child's use of headphones to a maximum of two hours a day. It's all about moderation. Any longer than that can cause damage to your child's ears, even if they are using a volume limiter.

What are the best headphones for kids?

This is a difficult question to answer because there are so many options out there, but we've tried to give you a clear picture of the best headphones for your kids. We recommend checking out everything on this list, because there really is something for everyone and every budget right here. You know your kids best, so it's really up to you.

These are the best headphones for kids in 2025.

SAVE $50: As of July 30, the 11th-generation Apple iPad (128GB, WiFi) is back under $300. Scoop it up at Amazon for $299 and save 14% or $50.

Opens in a new window Credit: Apple 11th-generation Apple iPad (128GB, WiFi) $299 at Amazon
$349 Save $50 Get Deal

It may not be as impressive as the Pro or Air, but the basic iPad is proof that Apple can create solid entry-level tech. Even after its 2025 glow up, it's still the most affordable tablet in Apple's lineup — even defeating the mini.

As of July 30, the already budget-friendly iPad (11th generation) is back down to just $299 at Amazon. That's $50 or 14% in savings from its usual list price of $349. While that's not its lowest price to date, it's still a stellar price point for what you're getting.

The 11th-generation iPad brought us some much-appreciated upgrades, including a processor boost to Apple's A16 chip, the same one found in the latest iPhones. That means switching between apps is smoother, performance is snappier, and load times are more instant. The base model also comes with 128GB of storage, which is effectively double what previous iPad base models packed under the hood.

While it probably won't wow you like the iPad Pro, the basic iPad (11th generation) still does a great job for someone who wants a portable screen for streaming, playing games, reading, or even doubling as a budget laptop. And at $299, it's the cheapest new iPad you'll find.

DJI has been on a roll lately.

The popular consumer drone brand has expanded in recent years to feature more types of products, from gimbal cameras to wireless microphones. Despite the looming threat of a ban on DJI drones in the United States, the company has also been aggressively expanding its footprint this summer. Recently, we've seen the launch of a new power station, a rumored robot vacuum launch, and now the introduction of its Amflow e-bikes to the U.S. market.

Amflow is a DJI subsidiary that makes electronic mountain bikes. They've been available in European markets since 2024, but they've officially launched in the United States. However, they come with a vertigo-inducing price tag. The Amflow PL Carbon is priced at $7,499, and the Amflow PL Carbon Pro is priced at $10,199. You could buy a used car for the same amount.

So, what makes these e-bikes so expensive?

The bikes feature a walk assist mode to prevent rollback going uphill. Credit: DJI Top deals from DJI DJI Mini 4K Drone $249 (save $50 at Amazon) Get Deal DJI Mini 3 (DJI RC) camera drone $479 (save $70 at Amazon) Get Deal DJI Power 1000 Portable Power Station $549 (save $450 at Amazon) Get Deal More about DJI's Amflow mountain bikes

The Amflow mountain bikes both have an 800Wh battery with a range of 157 km. They also feature a touchscreen OLED display to provide real-time data about speed, charge, range, and other information. Users can also access an app to get summaries of their activity and other insights.

The PL Carbon mountain bikes feature a carbon fiber frame for a lightweight construction. They have five assist modes and plenty of torque for tackling steep hills and rough terrain, as well as a walk assist mode for lugging the bikes up trails.

To a non-mountain biker like myself, the specs seem strangely similar. The electric motor and charging system are identical on each bike. The biggest differences are in the rear shocks, rear derailleur, handlebars, and saddle. While the base version uses more alloys, the Pro version features more carbon fiber.

Record your rides with the companion app. Credit: DJI The two-inch OLED touchscreen provides real-time ride data. Credit: DJI SEE ALSO: The DJI Mini 4K drone is selling fast — here’s where to buy yours

While they have a high price tag, the bikes do come with a “30-day unconditional return.”

For more information on the new DJI e-bikes, head to the Amflow website.

The best streaming deals to watch "The Life of Chuck" at a glance: WATCH NOW Rent or buy "The Life of Chuck" at Prime Video $9.99 or $19.99 Shop Now WATCH NOW Rent or buy "The Life of Chuck" at Fandango at Home $9.99 or $19.99 Get Deal WATCH NOW Rent or buy "The Life of Chuck" at Apple TV $9.99 or $19.99 Get Deal WATCH LATER Hulu annual subscription $99.99 per year (save $19.89) Get Deal WATCH LATER Hulu and Disney+ bundle $10.99 per month (save $8.99 per month) Get Deal WATCH LATER Hulu Student $1.99 per month (save $8 per month) Get Deal WATCH LATER Hulu (with ads) free for select T-Mobile customers (save $9.99 per month) Get Deal

When you hear about a Mike Flanagan and Stephen King collab, you automatically assume it's a horror flick. But The Life of Chuck is far from it.

Part post-apocalyptic thriller, part feel-good coming-of-age drama, and part ghost story, The Life of Chuck is based off a short story of King's and it's quickly become one of our favorite films of the year. Starring Tom Hiddleston as Chuck Krantz and a wonderful ensemble cast including Chiwetel Ejiofor, Annalise Basso, Benjamin Pajak, Karen Gillan, Mia Sara, Matthew Lillard, Carl Lumbly, Samantha Sloyan, Harvey Guillén, Jacob Tremblay, Kate Siegel, and Mark Hamill, it weaves a tale of love, loss, and joys in living. It's a real crowd pleaser.

If you didn't catch it in theaters, now's your chance to stream it at home. Here's everything you need to know about how to watch The Life of Chuck.

What is The Life of Chuck about?

Written and directed by Mike Flanagan, The Life of Chuck marks his third Stephen King adaptation following 2017’s Gerald’s Game and 2019’s Doctor Sleep. Based on the King novella of the same name, it begins in a world plagued by catastrophe. School teacher Marty Anderson (Ejiofor) is dealing with an onslaught of bad news, from natural disasters to the internet going down for good. As he's trying to make sense of things, he's distracted by a billboard honoring Charles "Chuck" Krantz (Hiddleston) for "39 great years." Who is this mystery man, and why are these billboards appearing in what seems to be the end of the world as we know it?

The Life of Chuck blends genres in three chapters to explore the life of an average guy, Chuck, and his profound impact on the world.

Check out the full trailer:

Is The Life of Chuck worth watching?

While it didn't get the biggest crowd at the box office, those who did show up for The Life of Chuck loved it. It holds an 81 percent critic rating and 88 percent audience rating on Rotten Tomatoes, and earned the coveted People’s Choice Award at the Toronto International Film Festival in 2024, beating out Oscar winner Anora and nominee Emilia Pérez.

SEE ALSO: What's new to streaming this week?

"The Life of Chuck is masterfully told. Like King's most moving adaptations, it doesn't play by standard rules of structure or audience expectations. It demands we follow the winding road through playful dialogue, painful lows, and rollicking highs, to an unknown beyond," Mashable's Kristy Puchko writes. "It's surprising and upsetting, funny and profound. I laughed hard, cried 'til my eyes ached, and once gasped so loud that I heard it echo across a theater struck silent by a moment both shocking and tender."

Simply put, it's one of our favorite movies of 2025 so far. Even King himself praised the adaptation, calling it "one of the good ones."

Read our full review of The Life of Chuck.

How to watch The Life of Chuck at home Credit: Neon

The Life of Chuck opened in theaters nationwide on June 13, 2025, after premiering at the 2024 Toronto International Film Festival. If you missed out, no biggie; it's now officially available to watch at home. You'll have two different ways to watch as of July 29: buy it on digital video-on-demand retailers or rent it from digital video-on-demand retailers. It will also be available to stream at an unknown later date. See the details below.

Buy or rent on digital

The Neon film officially made its at-home debut via video-on-demand retailers like Prime Video and Apple TV on July 29. You can purchase The Life of Chuck for your own digital library or rent it for 30 days. Just keep in mind that with rentals, you'll only have 48 hours to finish watching once you start.

Here are some quick links to buy or rent the film on digital:

• Prime Video — $9.99 to rent, $19.99 to buy

• Fandango at Home — $9.99 to rent, $19.99 to buy

• Apple TV — $9.99 to rent, $19.99 to buy

Stream it on Hulu

As a Neon film, we expect The Life of Chuck to make its streaming debut on Hulu at a later date. While there's no official word on when that will be, we expect a late fall release in November 2025.

Hulu subscriptions start at $9.99 per month, but there are a few different ways you can save. We've rounded up the best ongoing Hulu streaming deals below.

The best Hulu streaming dealsBest Hulu deal for most people: Hulu annual subscription Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu (with ads) annual subscription $99.99 per year (save $19.89) Get Deal

The best way to cut the price of a Hulu subscription is to opt for an annual plan instead of a monthly plan. By paying for a year upfront for $99.99 (which breaks down to $8.33 per month), you'll save about 16% or just shy of $20. Sure, it's not a ton of money, but every dollar counts.

Best bundle deal: Get Hulu and Disney+ for 45% off Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu / Disney+ Hulu and Disney+ (with ads) $10.99 per month (save $8.99 per month) Get Deal

One of the best deals in the streaming world is Disney's bundle plan. You can get both Disney+ and Hulu with ads in the Duo Basic bundle for just $10.99 per month. That's only a dollar more than paying for one streamer on its own, saving you about 45% total. You could also throw HBO Max into the mix for an extra $6 per month. That's $16.99 per month for three different services, which saves you about 44%.

Best for students: Hulu Student Opens in a new window Credit: Hulu Hulu Student (with ads) $1.99 per month (save $8 per month) Get Deal

College students can save 80% or $8 per month on a Hulu with ads subscription. Sign up through the Hulu Student promotional page and verify your college email address via SheerID, and the price will drop from $9.99 to just $1.99 per month.

Best for T-Mobile users: Hulu (with ads) free for select customers Opens in a new window Credit: T-Mobile / Hulu Hulu (with ads) free for select T-Mobile customers Get Deal

Aside from the free trial, the only way you can get Hulu for free in 2025 is through T-Mobile's Go5G Next and Experience Beyond plans. Better yet, you'll also get Netflix and Apple TV+ for free. If you're already on one of these plans, head over to the T-Mobile promo page and choose "redeem now" to claim the offer. You'll just have to enter your T-Mobile number and account details to sign up for Hulu. If you're not on the Go5G Next plan or Experience Beyond plan, make the switch to start taking advantage of the best free streaming lineup around.

Earlier this month, Skechers announced Find My Skechers, a new line of kids' sneakers with a hidden compartment for Apple AirTags. The AirTag is placed in a circular slot below the insole, and Skechers says kids won't be able to feel it.

Some parents already use Apple AirTags to track their kids' location, turning to Amazon to buy AirTag holders you can pin on clothes, to shoelaces, or wear around the wrist. However, I haven't seen a major company launch a product that caters to this trend before.

Opens in a new window Credit: Skechers Skechers Find My Sneakers $58
Get Deal

Interestingly, while the Skechers website and an announcement Instagram post say the product is designed to make it easy to locate your kids' shoes, a promo video from the company specifically talks about using the shoes to track your kids. The Find my Skechers website reads, "Each pair is designed with a secure, hidden pocket under the insole that perfectly fits an Apple AirTag, so you can always know where their favorite shoes are." (Emphasis added.)

However, this mobile YouTube video from the Skechers YouTube page is more direct: “Moms and dads, now you can know where your kids are at all times in Skecher's newest Apple AirTag compatible sneakers. It’s genius. There’s a clever, secure, hidden compartment under the insole. Your child can’t feel it, and you can see where your kids are on the Find My app.” (Emphasis added.)

In the video, a cheery actress also says, “Look, we all know Skechers is famous for comfort, and now they’re giving us comfort of mind when it comes to our kids.” However, in the non-mobile version of the ad, the actress reads the same script, except she adds the word "shoes" in lines like "you can see where your kids shoes are." It's a small but significant difference. Mashable reached out to Skechers for clarification, and we'll update this article if the company responds.

Regardless, the new sneakers are available for sale now at the Skechers website in boys' and girls' sizes. The shoes are priced between $52 and $58.

Shoes that track kids' location could be a godsend for parents who are nervous about losing track of their kids in a crowded place, but products like this also raise potential privacy concerns. Apple has taken steps to make AirTags more privacy friendly in recent years.

Products featured in this article: Find My Skechers Sneakers Starting at $52 Get Deal Apple AirTag $25.99 (save $3.01 at Amazon) Get Deal

TL;DR: Online safety for the whole family is easy with this lifetime AdGuard Family Plan, now just A$24 (reg. A$260) with code FAMPLAN through 7 September.

Opens in a new window Credit: AdGuard AdGuard Family Plan: Lifetime Subscription AU$24
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The internet isn’t just cluttered with ads; there are also trackers and other hidden threats. AdGuard keeps you safe online by blocking intrusive ads, stopping trackers, and safeguarding your privacy across all your devices.

Right now, you can grab lifetime protection for the whole crew with the AdGuard Family Plan. Cover up to nine devices for only A$24 (reg. A$260) with code FAMPLAN through 7 September.

Enjoy a safer and smoother browsing experience

The internet should be fun, not frustrating. AdGuard tackles the most annoying parts of online life, like pop-ups, autoplay videos, and banner ads, so that you can enjoy your time browsing, streaming, and scrolling again.

Aside from blocking ads, AdGuard also protects your privacy. Your information will stay safe from trackers and activity analyzers, and you'll be shielded from malware and phishing websites that you or your family members could fall victim to.

Moms and dads will love AdGuard's parental control feature, which keeps your kids safe from inappropriate content online.

This Family Plan lets you protect up to nine devices with AdGuard, so you can make sure everyone's devices stay safe. And it works with Android and iOS operating systems alike, so it can be used on tablets, smartphones, and laptops.

Secure your own AdGuard Family Plan for life for just A$24 with code FAMPLAN through 7 September.

StackSocial prices subject to change.

The magic of the New York City subway system is that it can take you anywhere, any time of day. Even a new home, it seems. At least that was the case for a lost kitten turned viral sensation.

You might've seen the now-famous kitty on TikTok, originally posted by @Pocahontae. The kitten, seemingly a stray, wandered onto the subway at the 110th Street Station as if it were commuting to work. The post from @Pocahontae, given name Shaquantae McGee, has racked up some eight million views on TikTok.

The video shows a person safely scooping up the kitten as subway passengers wonder what to do.

"The woman got off at the next stop with the cat," McGee told local station 6ABC. "Everyone was in shock and panic."

SEE ALSO: From Moo Deng to Pesto the Penguin, here are the cutest animals taking over our feeds

But this story apparently has a happy ending. The commuter who scooped up the kitty told The Today Show that she has adopted the kitten and named her Emmie, in honor of NYC's MTA.

The rider's name is Betsaida Mercado. She posted an update on TikTok, stitched with the original video.

"I've never had a cat before, but she is so precious, I love her," Mercado said in the TikTok. Mercado's page is now full of heartwarming Emmie updates, including all the gifts sent her way, her new sibling (a dog), and her trip to the vet.

So what likely started out as a stressful ride for Emmie has now turned into a safe, loving home — and life as a viral star.

People reach for all kinds of metaphors to describe their relationship to AI. For some, AI is like a mostly reliable intern. For others, it’s a virtual assistant. Increasingly, chatbots like ChatGPT are moving into the role of companion, therapist, even romantic partner. As a college writing professor, I’ve come to think of AI as a collaborator: an archive of knowledge that talks back. But as a sober alcoholic myself, I also can’t help but imagine it as a high-functioning drunk: It can sometimes sound brilliant even when it has no idea what it’s talking about.

I can tell you stories about the ways AI has come through when I needed it, saving me hours of time by doing mundane tasks, proofreading my writing, or conversing about my latest research obsessions. But then there are those other times when it lies with a cheery tone, when it seems to not understand a word I’m saying but just keeps talking rather than admit it’s wrong or that it doesn’t have an answer. Like a few weeks ago, when I asked ChatGPT to turn my written remarks for an academic conference into a slide deck. My talk was about literary journalism, and it proudly offered me a presentation about luxury travel in Brazil.

Off-the-rails incidents like that give me plenty of cautionary tales to share with my students. But even though I think AI undercuts some of the most important human reasons to write, not all kinds of writing are the same. To write, we often have to research first, and after we’ve written a draft we need critical feedback. Instead of taking a reactionary approach to AI, I want to explore with my students how it can be a useful collaborator in that process.

Chatting with the archive

So much of college writing is based on research and reading, a process that trains the mind to organize information and think logically. But using new technologies for that process doesn’t mean we’re not still doing critical mental work. Just in my lifetime, those technologies have changed radically: We’ve gone from library card catalogs and microfiche to online databases like JSTOR and Google Scholar. Those tools don’t require any less thinking—they just speed up some of the brainstorming and collecting information, and they expand the amount of knowledge we’re able to consider.

Because I had witnessed this rapid digitization of research and writing tools even before AI, I’m more inclined to imagine ways AI can be a collaborative research partner. In my field, for example, literary scholars spend hours combing through primary sources in libraries and archives. Digitization has already made these easier to access, and AI may make them easier to analyze. 

Lately, I’ve realized we could think of talking to an AI chatbot not like browsing an archive, but like conversing with one. Before we dive into more intensive work, we can have a research-orienting chat with a “mind” that at least has a general idea of what’s out there. A few weeks ago, I used my limited access to ChatGPT’s advanced voice function to ask if it thought that this idea of chatting with the archive was a reasonable way to understand what is happening when I converse with AI. It answered, “When you’re talking to an AI like me, you’re accessing a vast amount of information and patterns derived from human knowledge up to a certain point.” It also hedged a bit: “It’s important to remember that while I can provide information and insights based on that knowledge, I don’t possess human experiences or consciousness. So, while it might feel like conversing with a vast reservoir of knowledge, it’s always good to consider the human perspective and context as well.”

Still, as our conversation went on and my questions got more pointed, I could ask it to provide references and places I could go to do further reading. Since that first tentative conversation, this pre-writing conversation with AI is becoming part of my workflow. I’ve always found it easier to work out my ideas through dialogue, but not many people are interested in hearing my half-baked ideas. That is why I’ve found that talking through ideas is one of the best uses of AI for writers.

Creating your own mini-archive

While talking with AI has proven helpful for idea generation — and the fact that it keeps a transcript makes it easier to refer to later — there are a growing number of AI-based tools designed to help with the more intensive phases of research. At the end of the fall semester last year, a student sent me an email asking if I’d heard of Google’s NotebookLM. I hadn’t, but when I opened the link, I got the concept almost immediately. NotebookLM takes the idea of talking to the archive to the next level: The archive you chat with is one you assemble yourself with sources for a particular project, which the AI can also help you collect to get started.

Preparing for my recent conference talk, I dumped 25 PDFs that I had assembled and stored in Zotero, my favorite citation manager, into NotebookLM’s interface. It quickly “read” them and provided a summary that began, “These sources discuss ordinary language philosophy, primarily focusing on the work of Wittgenstein, Austin, and Cavell, and its relationship to other philosophical and literary movements like pragmatism, transcendentalism, and deconstruction.” Below the summary is a text entry field that encourages me to “Start typing…” and provides some suggested prompts like, “How does ordinary language philosophy challenge traditional philosophical approaches to meaning?”

On the right side of the page, in an area designated “Studio,” I'm invited to create an audio overview, which takes the form of a podcast, complete with two voices — one male, one female — bantering about my chosen topic. If I use Interactive Mode, I get treated like a caller on an old late night radio show. I get compliments for my great questions and responses based on the documents I provided. The podcast part isn’t great yet; it’s creepily pandering, but I can envision it getting better and becoming more useful. NotebookLM has other helpful features: It can create a “Mind Map,” study guide, briefing doc, FAQ, and timeline. I’ll continue to use it and suggest students do so as well.

A not-quite writing tutor

One more way that AI could prove helpful to student writers is in its ability to provide instant feedback on student writing. When I asked ChatGPT about this concept, it encouraged me to “think of AI like a writing tutor that’s available 24/7” with the caveat that it “lacks the personal touch and nuanced understanding of individual students that a human tutor provides.” 

I pasted in the full text of one of my previous Mashable stories and asked for suggestions. It seemed well-versed in what we refer to in classroom peer workshop sessions as the “compliment sandwich”: criticism folded in between two compliments. 

It told me, “This is a compelling, eloquently written piece…your voice is authentic and reflective,” before offering “some suggestions to elevate the piece further.” Again, it began with “Strengths to Keep,” followed by “Suggestions for Improvement,” including “tighten the opening,” “strengthen transitions,” and “consider a stronger conclusion.” It also had a few “minor style edits” to suggest. Finally, it provided an overall rating: 9/10.

Maybe it was all the compliments, but I got greedy. I pasted in another essay (9.5/10) and then the conference talk I was working on. The overall impression started off great: “Your paper presents a compelling argument for the value of literary journalism that focuses on the “ordinary” and ‘quotidian.’” That’s true, though I never used the word “quotidian.” But then — I should have expected — it went off the rails. “The references to foundational figures (e.g., Bateson, Becker, Carey, Geertz, Tuchman) and contemporary examples (e.g., Kiese Laymon, Eliza Griswold, E. Tammy Kim) help situate your argument within a well-informed scholarly framework.” I don’t reference any of those figures as foundational or otherwise. 

I called its attention to this, and it said I was “absolutely right” and thanked me for pointing it out. Its explanation, however, was still baffling: “I mistakenly based part of my response on assumptions or cached ideas from other academic discussions of literary journalism, not your specific paper.” I study literary journalism; the names ChatGPT dropped belong to writers, but they are not scholars in my field. Still, after I corrected it, we got back on track and it provided feedback, again utilizing the compliment sandwich. 

I’m not sure what to make of the fact that ChatGPT fared much better against my more journalistic writing as opposed to the academic, except that it provides yet another opportunity for me to urge caution when helping students think through appropriate uses of AI to complement — rather than replace — the writing process.

Ultimately, I love the notion of AI as conversant, albeit something that occasionally overindulges, leading it to overly flatter and outright lie. I’m all for the notion that, in talking with a chatbot, writers can approximate something like talking to a whole host of human knowledge, especially with a tool like NotebookLM that lets writers “teach” the AI about a topic before discussing it.

AI as a collaborator appeals to me, even if I have to approach it with a healthy sense of skepticism, always prepared for the next time it will let me down.

SAVE $20: As of July 30, get the Anker Laptop Charger for $59.99 at Best Buy, down from its usual price of $79.99. That's a discount of 25%.

Opens in a new window Credit: Best Buy Anker Laptop Charger $59.99 at Best Buy
$79.99 Save $20.00 Get Deal

If you regularly look for a charger that can ensure your laptop is back up to 100% battery, it might be time to get a new one. Just so you can stop worrying about losing yours. You probably use it all the time anyway, so having a spare can't hurt. And this Anker model is a particularly good one at a great price.

As of July 30, get the Anker Laptop Charger for $59.99 at Best Buy, down from its usual price of $79.99. That's $20 off and a discount of 25%.

SEE ALSO: Anker just dropped 3 new Nano power banks and chargers

This 140W charger comes with four ports with fast charging, so you can make sure all your devices have a place to power back up. You can charge everything from phones to laptops, and it can even bring your 15-inch MacBook Air to 50% charge in 30 minutes with two of its USB-C ports, each with a maximum output of 140W.

It uses ActiveShield 2.0 to ensure your devices' temperature stays at safe levels as well as the charger's so you don't have to worry about coming home to a disaster. Plus, it has a bright and crisp HD display directly on the charger that gives you an overview of the ports' details, charging status, and temperature all in one place.

This is a charger that has every detail covered, and it's not going to break the bank. Grab one while it's on sale for an excellent charger that you'll want to come back to time and time again. Make sure to browse our other favorite Anker charging accessories while you're at it.

Shop our favorite laptops of 2025: Best Apple deal Apple MacBook Air (M4 chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $799 (save $200) Get Deal Best Windows laptop deal Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599 (save $400) Get Deal Best 2-in-1 deal Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 (save $350) Get Deal

Hunting for a new laptop can quickly and easily lead to analysis paralysis. The options are seemingly endless and the specs can get pretty convoluted. So allow us to be your tour guide through the computer cosmos.

Mashable's laptop experts have been busy testing different models all year and have selected just three that meet our high expectations in 2025. And as of July 30, all three laptops are on sale for record-low prices. It's a really good time to be shopping for a laptop. Here's the essential details you need in order to seal the deal.

Best Apple deal: M4 MacBook Air Opens in a new window Credit: Apple Apple MacBook Air (M4 chip, 16GB RAM, 256GB SSD) $799 at Amazon
$999 Save $200 Get Deal Why we like it

If you're more of a Mac than a PC person, the M4 MacBook Air is hard to beat. While it didn't exactly reinvent the wheel with the latest model, it's next-gen upgrades and crazy low price (for a MacBook, that is) make it the best pick for most people. Faster than the M3 version by 24 percent, it's one of the speediest laptops in our testing database. Mashable Senior Editor Stan Schroeder said its power is "almost overkill." The 13-inch version starts at only $999 for 16GB of RAM and 256GB storage and is currently down to only $799 at Amazon and Best Buy. That's $50 cheaper than it was on Prime Day, officially a new best price ever for the laptop.

Want a little more screen real estate? The 15-inch M4 Air is also at a record-low price of $999.

Read Mashable's full review of the 15-inch Apple MacBook Air (M4).

Best Windows laptop deal: Asus Zenbook A14 Opens in a new window Credit: Asus Asus Zenbook A14 (Snapdragon X Plus, 16GB RAM, 512GB SSD) $599 at Best Buy
$999 Save $400 Get Deal Why we like it

Our resident laptop expert Haley Henschel was pleased to report that the Asus Zenbook A14 lived up to most of our very high expectations. Its OLED display and Ceraluminum chassis are gorgeous, it's incredibly lightweight and thin, and its battery life lasts 22 hours. The base model features a Snapdragon X Plus processor, 16GB of RAM, and 512GB of storage and came just shy of the M3 MacBook Pro in our processing power test, meaning it's pretty dang fast. It's not perfect (its speakers are awful), but value-wise, it's hard to find a better Windows laptop on a budget — especially right now with a $400 discount.

Best 2-in-1 deal: Lenovo Yoga 9i Aura Edition Opens in a new window Credit: Lenovo Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 Aura Edition (Intel Core Ultra 7 258V, 32GB RAM, 1TB SSD) $1,399.99 at Best Buy
$1,749.99 Save $350 Get Deal Why we like it

The "Aura edition" version of the premium Lenovo Yoga 9i 2-in-1 essentially means it's loaded with cool AI features — like a "Wellness Mode" that analyzes your posture. But here's where it really makes its mark: It's the longest-lasting laptop we've ever tried, with a battery life of over 23(!) hours. Our tester Sarah Chaney raved about its "super vibrant" 2.8K OLED touchscreen display and island-style keyboard. It scored slightly lower on our power test than its predecessor, even with its newer Intel Core Ultra 7 258V processor, which is kind of a bummer. But it's on par with the other models we've tested with Intel Core Ultra Series 2 processors and costs less, making this our favorite 2-in-1 laptop of 2025.

As of July 30, it's down $350 from its list price, marking its lowest price to date.

After spending billions of dollars to recruit top AI talent from rival AI companies, Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg has shared his vision to "bring personal superintelligence to everyone."

Zuckerberg published the manifesto on Wednesday morning, after weeks of a poaching frenzy that convinced AI researchers from OpenAI, Anthropic, and Google to join Meta's new superintelligence group, dubbed Meta Superintelligence Labs. Meta also gained Scale AI CEO Alexandr Wang as part of a $14.3 billion investment in the data annotation company. The goal is to develop better AI models to compete against Meta's rivals, which have consistently bested the tech giant on key benchmarks. To accomplish this, Zuckerberg reportedly wants the new AI supergroup to operate more like a startup within Meta, keeping it compartmentalized from the larger Meta "bureaucracy," according to a recent report in The Financial Times.

This Tweet is currently unavailable. It might be loading or has been removed. SEE ALSO: Meta forges ahead with facial recognition for its AI glasses

The Meta CEO didn't get into specifics of his superintelligence vision, but emphasized an advanced form of AI that's highly personalized and empowering. "As profound as the abundance produced by AI may one day be, an even more meaningful impact on our lives will likely come from everyone having a personal superintelligence that helps you achieve your goals, create what you want to see in the world, experience any adventure, be a better friend to those you care about, and grow to become the person you aspire to be," Zuckerberg wrote.

He also threw light shade on Meta's competitors by saying "others in the industry... believe superintelligence should be directed centrally towards automating all valuable work, and then humanity will live on a dole of its output." This may be alluding to Meta's open-source approach to developing AI, compared to rivals like OpenAI and Anthropic which closely guard the secrets of their models. "At Meta, we believe that people pursuing their individual aspirations is how we have always made progress expanding prosperity, science, health, and culture."

The timing of Zuckerberg's post coincides with Meta's Q2 earnings call later today. We'll find out soon whether Wall Street likes this better than his vision for the Metaverse. You can read the full post at the Meta website.